H.B. No. 4848 mandates that public institutions of higher education in Texas offer competency-based baccalaureate degree programs in high-demand fields, as determined by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board. The bill introduces a new section, 51.3535, to the Education Code, which outlines the responsibilities of system administration in ensuring these programs are available. It specifies that the total cost for students enrolled in these programs cannot exceed half of the average cost of attendance at a higher education institution, with provisions for annual adjustments based on inflation starting in the 2027-2028 academic year.

The bill also grants the coordinating board the authority to adopt necessary rules for the administration of this section. The provisions of this act will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply beginning with the 2026-2027 academic year. This legislation aims to enhance educational accessibility and affordability in Texas by promoting competency-based education tailored to workforce needs.

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